Mount Meru is Tanzania’s second-highest mountain at 4,566 meters (14,980 feet) and is located within Arusha National Park, near Arusha city and close to the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its dramatic scenery, the trek up Meru is both challenging and rewarding, passing through lush forests, open grasslands, and volcanic landscapes.
The trek is popular among climbers as an acclimatization hike for Mount Kilimanjaro, but it stands out as a unique adventure on its own. Unlike the more popular Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru provides an intimate experience with less crowded trails. Trekkers encounter diverse wildlife, including buffalo, giraffe, elephants, and antelope, and the trails are often accompanied by armed rangers for safety.
The hike to Mount Meru’s summit takes around 3 to 4 days and provides incredible views of Kilimanjaro, especially from the summit at sunrise. Its rocky ridges and ash cone crater make it a picturesque but challenging ascent.